Solardo

When it comes to rising stars in the electronic music scene, Solardo’s name rings out loud and clear. This dynamic duo, hailing from Manchester, UK, has been shaking up the industry with their unique sound and infectious energy.

Their story isn’t just about chart-topping hits and packed-out venues. It’s a tale of passion, dedication, and an unwavering belief in their musical vision. As we delve deeper into Solardo’s journey, we’ll uncover the twists and turns that have shaped their remarkable career.

So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just discovering their music, join us as we explore the vibrant world of Solardo. Get ready for a journey filled with pulsating beats, unforgettable performances, and a whole lot of heart.

Early Life & Background

Dive into the roots of Solardo; let’s unravel the intriguing journey these artists embarked on. Born and bred in the heart of England, the members of Solardo—Mark Richards (MRK1) and James Eliot—experienced their initial onslaught of musical inspiration in Manchester. A city known for its rich musical history and influential dance music culture.

One vital element in their journey includes Richards’s early life; he showed immense interest in music, evident from him becoming a world-renowned dubstep producer as MRK1. Similarly, Eliot’s formative years were not short of musical influences, participating actively in the local rave scene.

These two individuals from musical backgrounds, though contrasting, shared a mutual love for electronic music, particularly, house and techno. The collaborators crossed paths in the city’s music atmosphere, each bringing a diverse set of skills.

Richards had prowess in production techniques and a keen ear for creating punchy, distinctive beats, while Eliot brought an entrepreneurial spirit, proven by the success of his events management company—Mvson collective.

Eventually, their shared enthusiasm for music led to the birth of Solardo. The fusion of their tastes and skills created soundtracks that shook the dance floors across Manchester, encapsulating listeners in their rhythmic blends. Their early motivations involved pushing the boundaries and charting unexplored territories of electronic beats.

Reflecting on their background, it becomes evident how Solardo’s distinctive soundscape came into existence. Much of the duo’s achievements in the music industry can be traced back to their formative years in Manchester, their early excursions in the world of music, and their shared passion practiced in unison.

Breakthrough in the EDM Scene

The EDM scene began buzzing about Solardo after the duo’s ingenious blend of house and techno reverberated across Manchester. Their transition into the limelight began in 2016 when their track, “Tribesmen,” hit number one on Beatport’s Tech House chart.

In the same year, Solardo made it into Resident Advisor’s most charted artists list. High-ranking numbers such as two entries in the Beatport Tech House top ten and a spot within Beatport’s top five releases demonstrated the duo’s budding popularity. Solardo’s rise to fame was marked by the release of numerous killer tracks like “Tribesmen”, “The Aztecs”, and “On The Corner.”

Subsequently, Solardo made the jump to performing at world-renowned festivals. They commanded the stage at top-tier events, including the BPM Festival, Parklife and Creamfields. Festival goers from all corners of the globe found themselves enraptured by Solardo’s unique beats.

Soundcloud plays and Spotify streams surged, providing solid evidence of the pair’s ascending popularity. By 2018, Solardo’s monthly listeners on Spotify soared to a staggering 1.8 million. Additions of the duo’s music to the playlists of Annie Mac, Pete Tong, and Danny Howard on BBC Radio 1 only added fuel to the fire.

Buoyed by their growing fame, Solardo started their record label, Sola. Founded in 2017, Sola not only amplified Solardo’s musical influence but also offered opportunities to other aspiring artists in the realm of house and techno.

Solardo’s breakthrough in the EDM scene was a combination of unique musical productions, high-profile festival performances, booming online streams, and the successful launch of a record label. The duo’s trajectory confirms the truth in their statement: music’s not just a hobby; it’s a way of life. It seems that for Solardo, the best beats are yet to come.

Signature Sound & Production Techniques

Diving deeper into the duo’s sound, we delve into the signature Sound and Production techniques of Solardo, which has made them a force to reckon in the music industry.

What type of EDM is Solardo?

Solardo’s unique blend of electronic music falls into the techno and house music genres. This creative mix is a reflection of their vast influences and musical tastes. The duo’s distinct sound incorporates bold, heavy beats, rich percussive elements, hypnotic rhythms, and infectious melodies, creating a signature sound that is undeniably Solardo. Their knack for creating dance-floor bangers ensures that they remain at the forefront of the EDM scene. Their house-infused techno style resonates with their listeners, making their tracks a favorite among EDM enthusiasts.

Similar Artists to Solardo

Similar artists to Solardo extend across several subgenres in electronic dance music, offering their unique twists on house and techno styles. We’ll explore a few of them, highlighting their links to Solardo’s musical approach and their individual soundscapes.

Disciples, a London based trio, delve into deep and soulful house, boasting sounds reminiscent of Solardo’s bold rhythms and infectious grooves.

Detroit Swindle, the Dutch duo, excels with an unpredictable blend of house and techno. Their devotion to classy beats mirrors Solardo’s commitment to blending genres and carving out a distinctive musical identity.

Patrick Topping, another British heavyweight in the techno scene, offers sleek and potent tracks. Techno enthusiasts who enjoy Solardo’s dynamic soundscapes typically have an affinity for Topping’s work.

On a broader level, artists like CamelPhat, Gorgon City, and Fisher, successful in the electronic dance music realm, have music qualities connecting to Solardo’s entrancing blends.

Lastly, Jamie Jones, a Welsh DJ and two-time DJ Awards winner, has influenced the EDM scene with his brilliant melding of house and techno genres, much like Solardo. Jamie’s innovative play with percussions reminds one of Solardo’s trick with utilizing percussion elements.

It’s clear Solardo belongs to an eclectic group of artists pushing the boundaries in house and techno music. Each provides a unique flavor to a shared passion for innovative beats, echoing similarities to Solardo’s captivating style yet maintaining distinct and thrilling EDM voices.

Discography

Embedded in Solardo’s illustrious career, lies a series of impressive releases that chart their musical journey. Commencing in 2016, Solardo’s debut track, “Tribesmen,” was a significant breakthrough. It topped the Beatport charts, marking the ascendancy of their innovative style of house and techno. Capitalizing on this momentum, they dropped another chart-topping track, “The Aztecs,” later in the same year.

In the ensuing years, Solardo persisted in crafting infectious tunes. 2017 saw the release of the pulsating “Fall Down,” followed by “Be Somebody” and “Accelerator” in the subsequent year. Each track demonstrating their finesse in integrating driving beats with hypnotic rhythms. Their collaboration with CamelPhat, “Accelerator,” in particular, exemplified their knack for experimentation within the genre, brushing the boundaries of deep house and techno.

2019 opened a new chapter in Solardo’s discography. With releases such as “Tango Wango” and “Move Your Body,” they perpetuated their production prowess, fusing compelling percussion and striking melodies. Further cementing their distinctive sonic signature, they unveiled “XTC,” a collaboration with Eli Brown, which resonated across dance floors worldwide.

An analysis of Solardo’s discography showcases two major releases in every sequential year, maintaining a consistent momentum in their music production. The diversity of their tunes provides an exciting exploration into their experimental edge, balancing between enchanting melodies, robust beats and riveting rhythms. Their discography signifies a commitment to innovation, constantly pushing the thresholds of house and techno genres, delighting EDM enthusiasts worldwide.

While some may note resemblances with other house and techno artists, Solardo’s discography unequivocally establishes their unique niche. Matching the pace of EDM pioneers, such as Patrick Topping or Jamie Jones, their production technique stands distinct in its ability to captivate with bold beats and hypnotic rhythms. Their collection of works clearly reflects an acute understanding of their genre, and a passion to reshape electronic music with their distinctively heart-pounding aesthetic.

Tours & Live Performances

Venturing into Solardo’s robust tour history, one finds a plethora of performances across the globe. Known for their explosive live sets, Mark Richards (MRK1) and James Eliot have brought their invigorating brand of house and techno to the stage at numerous internationally acclaimed spots.

In 2016, handpicked by BBC Radio 1 for the Essential Mix Series, Solardo exploded onto the live scene, showcasing their dynamism and versatility. Their performances, resonating with hypnotizing rhythms and robust beats, have graced venues such as Glastonbury, Warehouse Project and Elrow, not to mention Creamfields, where their pulsating sounds echoed to enthusiastic crowds.

A significant milestone in Solardo’s touring history was their international “Solardo Sessions” tour, marking the duo’s initial plunge into the global circuit. Spanning multiple continents, it spotlighted their ability to engage audiences with their distinctive sound.

2018 saw the Solardo duo take to the stage at the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), Amsterdam’s premier electronic music conference, where they showcased their vibrant sonic textures. Their captivating mix of techno beats and house melodies demonstrated their unwavering commitment to pushing sonic boundaries.

The duo’s reputation for delivering high-energy performances culminated in a headline performance at the 2018 festival season, including Eastern Electrics, Hideout and Parklife among others. The opening chords of tracks like “Tribesmen,” “The Aztecs,” and “XTC” brought the crowds to their feet, reaffirming Solardo’s position as leading figures in the techno and house music scene.

Moreover, their electrifying sets across celebrated residencies such as Hï Ibiza and the Manchester Warehouse Project further highlight Solardo’s prowess on the live stage, offering fans a tangible experience of their ground-breaking sound.

Mark Richards and James Eliot continue to tour internationally, relentlessly sharing their blend of house and techno with a global fanbase. The duo’s vibrant stage presence and dynamic performances encapsulate the dynamic essence of Solardo, contributing to their rise as one of the pivotal acts in the EDM scene.

Personal Life & Off-stage Persona

Leaving the vibrant stage lights behind, diving into Solardo’s personal lives unveils a tale of enduring friendship and unbridled passion for music. Mark Richards (MRK1) and James Eliot, off-stage, illustrate the essence of dedication, just as they do under their shared moniker.

Subverting the glimmer of glamour, Richards and Eliot reside in Manchester when they’re not on the road. The city plays an essential role in shaping their music. Inspired by Manchester’s rich musical history and diverse soundscape, they’ve crafted a sound that’s very much synonymous with the city’s beat.

Richards’ journey began as a grime and dubstep producer, while Elliot first carved a niche in the promotions and club sector. Both careers eventually converged into forming Solardo. Their shared love for house and techno music cemented this bond. This harmony bleeds into their work, fueling their dynamic sound.

Off-stage, they’re just as enthusiastic about their music as they are behind the DJ decks. They invest much time in perfecting their craft, dabbling in various production techniques, and seeking inspiration in everyday life. Maintaining their fluid communication and understanding strengthens their creative output, while competitive spirit propels them to keep reimagining and brewing fresh sounds.

Solardo’s work ethic undoubtedly goes beyond their professional lives. Their approach to their music often mirrors their approach to life – they believe in open-mindedness, always encouraging creativity and innovation. This philosophy reflects through their successful label Sola, serving as a platform for new artists aiming to carve the same path.

Aside from music, both Richards and Elliot also share a deep love for football. Following Manchester United, remaining true to their city, often quenches their leisure pursuit. Their charismatic personalities coupled with a humble lifestyle have won many hearts, just as their innovative music has broken many dancefloors.

Nevertheless, it’s the balance of their shared passion and contrasting backgrounds that fortify their success. The bond between Richards and Elliot is not defined by their music alone but reaches deeper into their understanding and respect for each other, much like the syncopated beats and basslines of their productions.

Follow Solardo

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Instagram: @solardomusic

Twitter: @SolardoMusic

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the members of Solardo?

Solardo is an electronic music duo formed by Mark Richards (MRK1) and James Eliot, known for their unique mix of house and techno music.

What were some of Solardo’s breakthrough tracks?

Solardo’s breakthrough in the EDM scene came with the release of tracks like “Tribesmen” and “The Aztecs.”

What is Solardo’s signature sound?

Solardo’s signature sound is a blend of house and techno music, characterized by syncopated beats and heavy basslines.

Have Solardo performed at major festivals?

Yes, Solardo has been a staple at various prestigious festivals and held residencies at Hï Ibiza and the Manchester Warehouse Project.

What is the origin of Solardo?

Solardo originates from Manchester, where the duo’s individual career paths merged. Their shared love of house and techno music led to the formation of Solardo.

What is unique about Solardo’s off-stage persona?

Off-stage, Richards and Eliot share an enduring friendship and passion for music. Additionally, they both love football and this balance of shared passion and contrasting backgrounds contributes to their success.